Gardai to lead off Dublin City Marathon.
The Lifestyle Sports-Adidas Dublin City Marathon has honoured An Garda Síochána by asking the Garda Athletics Club to lead off the event on Monday, 27th October, 2008. A member from the Garda Choir will also sing the National Anthem prior to the commencement of the race. This year in excess of 30 Garda members, across many ranks and divisions, will participate in the Dublin City Marathon raising money for various charities of their choice. Following a rendition of the National Anthem by Garda Sergeant Mike Miley, the Garda group will lead off the race along side the Elite Athletes.
It has been a tradition in many marathons across the world for the police to lead off the race, but this is the first time that An Garda Síochána have been asked to undertake this role. The Garda Commissioner, Mr. Fachtna Murphy said: "I am delighted that An Garda Síochána is being honoured in this way. Sports, fitness and community involvement are key elements of our organisation and every effort is made to encourage officers to participate through bodies like the Garda Athletic Club and a range of other sporting clubs, organised under the auspices of Coiste Siamsa (Garda Athletic Association). Can I wish all participants in the marathon, including my own members, the very best of luck and congratulate the marathon organisers on this their 29th Dublin City Marathon."
A photo opportunity will be provided at Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park, on Wednesday, 22nd October, 2008 at 11a.m. at which the Commissioner Fachtna Murphy and the Race Director, Mr. Jim Aughney, will attend along with a number of the Gardai taking part in the race.
Garda Press Office
22nd October 2008
Please be advised that a photo opportunity will be provided at 11a.m on Wednesday, 22nd October, 2008 at Garda Headquarters, which will be attended by Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy, Dublin City Marathon Race Director Jim Aughney and a number of Garda athletes to mark the fact that members of An Garda Siochana will lead off the Dublin City Marathon and a member of the Gardai will sing the National Anthem prior to the commencement of the race.
Garda Press Office.
12:30 hrs 21/10/08
